NICKERSON, Capt. Russell Charles, 74 of Port Joli, left the wharf for his final journey August 21, 2021.
Russell was born in Port Mouton. He was the eldest son of Harriet (Huskins) Nickerson and the late Charles Nickerson.
He is survived by his wife, Sheila (Allison); children, Lorna (Mike Corbett) and Russell (Theresa Johnson), grandchildren Alexandra and Elijah Stephenson, Isaiah Nickerson, great grandson Coleson, brothers Richard (Joyce), Leslie (Betty), Sterling (Cheryl), Keith (Donna), Bentley (Stephanie) and sister Laura (Wayne) Cranton.
Russell was a career fisherman who worked his entire life on and around the ocean. Through his career that spanned more than fifty years, he fished the waters of the North Atlantic, the North Pacific, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean in a variety of fisheries. Over the years Russell made many friends and acquaintances whose company he treasured. Russell was a master storyteller. He had remarkable accounts of adventure, danger, bounty and excitement. He was a true fisherman with a tale for every occasion, and forceful opinions on the issues of the day. As salty and unpredictable as the ocean itself, Russell shared his zest for life and made the most of each day.
Russell was an avid hunter and sport fisherman who loved the outdoors. When he wasn’t on the water, he might well be in the Queens County woods. He was a generous man who shared his love of nature with his children and grandchildren. Planning for and participating in the first day of the trout season is a family rite of passage. His final catch was landed just days before his passing, and it was enthusiastically shared in story, cell phone pictures and delicious fillets. Later in life, Russell took up gardening, learning at the hand of his Uncle Bruce and his friends and neighbors. A final gift to his family is his formidable vegetable garden yet to be harvested.
Russell had great passion for causes he considered worthy, particularly those relating to fisheries, habitat and wildlife management. He was instrumental in establishing the green crab industry in Nova Scotia and worked to design the ‘Russell’ trap used in the commercial industry. Never without a project or a plan, he enjoyed the pursuit of change and progress. In his last words as he left the dock for the final time, Russell encouraged his loved ones to “take the good with the bad.” We wish him smooth sailing.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Chandlers’ Funeral Home, Liverpool, NS. A celebration of Russell’s life will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Queens General Hospital Foundation or to a charity of your choice. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.chandlersfuneral.com
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Heidi Huskins
Lorna & Russell & families,
I’m very sorry to hear of Cousin Russell’s passing. He was one of my favorites, he always made me laugh and had a great story, loved hearing the stories of my dad and uncles. He brought me treats from his garden etc .& lots of advice. I will miss him dearly, our condolences ❤ Heid Huskins
Bella and Jordan Oickle
To Sheila and Harriet and all the rest of the families,
So sorry to hear of Russell’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. R.I.P. Russell
Ron & Barb Campbell
To the Family,
We are saddened to hear of Russell’s passing.
Please accept our sincere condolences.
Shauna & Ian Corbett
We are so very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all.
Carolyn Gramlich
Dearest Lorna. Jim and I are thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. In reading about his life, it is evident that your father was a remarkable man who left an incredible legacy. Blessings, comfort and peace. Love always, Jim and Carolyn Gramlich
Leora Boutilier Cavanagh .
I am so sorry to hear of your loss Laura Richard Sterling Keith Leslie and Bently and also Russell’s wife and and all his children and Grandchildren and his Mom Harriet . My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time ,
Emily McLeod
To Sheila, Harriet, Richard, Leslie, Sterling, and all the other Nickerson family members:
I remember Russell being quite a handful when he was a youngster. One time, when I was playing with the Nickerson boys, Harriet came out and asked Russell to do something. He said “No!” and after trying to persuade him, she started running after him. Although she didn’t catch him, they both started laughing until they couldn’t run any more. He was a charismatic young man, and quite passionate about what he believed. When I found out that he was marrying Sheila Allison, I just knew that it would be an excellent match. Obviously, these are memories from a mere sixty years ago, but they were part of my childhood, and I love revisiting them. My condolences to you all, and take comfort in your memories. Xoxoxo
Nicole Ranger
Our thoughts and prayers to all of you at this difficult time. Cherish the memories you all share together. I never got to know my Step uncle Russell but by the write up I feel like he would of been someone a lot of people could connect with. He will watch over the waters now just from a different view.
Sincere condolences,
Nicole Ranger and Family
(Leslie/Betty Nickerson’s daughter)
Dave & Jocelyn Broughm
Sterling, Cheryl & Family:
Sending condolences to you all & thinking of you in the difficult days ahead.
Dave, Jocelyn & David Broughm
Janette Wamboldt
To The Families,
I am sorry to hear this news.Nothing stopped this man from what he wanted to do and he was the bravest man i ever met.I heard a few stories myself over the years visiting at his home when we use to drop by for short visits on our way hunting or clam digging.He could tell fishing and hunting stories with great interest.RIP Russell
Clyde & Wendy MacAdams
To the Family
We were so sorry to hear of Russell’s passing. Please know that you are in out thoughts at this difficult time and take care.
Darlene (Joudrey)Sewart
I would like to express my sympathies to the Nickerson family. It has been many years since we have been together but l remember you all fondly.
Stacey Fisher
Russell, So sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. My dad thought highly of him!! He was a wealth of knowledge! Take care.
Arthur and Marion Clattenburg
Deepest sympathies to Russell’s family. Treasure the memories.
Arthur and Cathy Anthony
I am so sorry to hear of Russell’s passing. We always had a good yarn wherever we met. He will be missed.
David and Janet Spicer
To all of Russell’s family
I was saddened to hear of Russell’s passing after a brave fight. Our condolences to you all. I knew Russell all my life. RIP
Dennis & Sherri Harrington
Sending sincere condolences to the family.
Wanda Himmelman
Thinking of you all at this very difficult time.
Susan MacLeod
Bentley and Stephanie
I am sorry that your grandfather has passed away . The obituary was written very well and shared a lot about Russell whom I did not know . My sincere condolences
Susan MacLeod
Susan Roy
To Aunt Sheila, Lorna, Bub & all the family:
It’s with a very broken heart I write this. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to each of you. Losing a parent/ grandparent is one of the hardest things we go through. I have such wonderful memories of Uncle Russell…(I will never hear him call me Harry again). He was a wonderful great uncle to my kids. We all have a special place in our hearts for him. Treasure your memories, love each other through the difficult days and weeks ahead. Rest Easy Uncle Russell…free of pain.
We love you, Susan, Kenny ,Kyle & Brandi ❤
Ruth
My condolence to the Nickerson family and his friends.. he will be missed by all.
Jean Blades
my sincere condolences to Lorna and Michael and to the entire family, So sorry for your loss. God bless you all.
Howard & Charlotte Callahan
Russell was an interesting and memorable character. We were so fortunate to have known him. Our sincere condolences to his family.
Robert / Marjorie MacGowan
To Sheila and family.
We were very sorry to hear of Russell’s passing. Our sincere condolences.
barb Himmelman
To the family of the late Russell Nickerson,,I am so sorry to see that Russell had passed. Yes he was a great worker and loved the outdoors. My sincere condolences to all the family.
Joyce and John Bolivar
Thinking of you all at this sad time. May the memories of your dad and granddad be with you always.
Billand Anna Cox
Nickerson families
We are sorry to read of Russell’s passing we send our condolences to all.
Bruce Theriau
To Sheila and Family
So sorry for your loss.
Iva Wagstaff
To Lorna and family,
I am so sorry to read of your loss. Thinking of you. Hugs, Iva
Shirley and Joe Latham
To: Shiela and Family:
So sorry to hear of Russ’s passing..He was a very interesting man to know and very caring. His love for the forestry and animals made him a very special guy. On top of the above he became a Captain who sailed the seas proudly. He will be missed and we pray he rest in peace.
Fond regards, Shirley and Joe
We lived next door where he was born and raised in Port Mouton and he became very close to both of my parents who both thought very highly of him..
Donna Wagner Rasmussen
To Harriett and family. So sorry to hear of Russell’s passing. Sending condolences to all of his family. I remember. we use to love visiting you when you lived in Port Mouton. It has been a long time since I had contact with you.
Dale Mckinnon
To the Nickson,s family, so sorry for your loss. Please accept our condolences
Richard & Dale Mckinnon
Ricky and Mariann Broome
Sorry for your loss, our sincere condolences to Russell’s family:
Lorraine MacGowan
To Bentley, Stephanie, Josh and all the Nickerson family my sympathies in the loss of Russell. He left behind many memories for you all to cherish and hold close. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
rodney and christine knox
condolences to Russells family
Richard & Linds (Clancy) Swain
To Russell’s family and friends: We were so sorry to hear of Russell’s passing .Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Valerie and Donald Inness
To: The Nickerson Family:
Please except our deepest sympathy.
Sincerely
Valerie and Donald Inness
Keith Nickerson
Safe sailing little brother
Carol Townsend
Sheila and family Sorry to hear of Russel passing.Enjoyed being neighbours Please accept my condolences.
Bobby Kretschmer & Carol Lombardi (Toronto)
Dear Sheila & family,
Please accept our sincere condolences. Both Carol and I had the honour to visit you and Russell during the past few years. Very fond memories. We will miss him.
As a young boy, I often recall Russell coming into the Pool Hall, numerous times in S.W. Port Mouton, to have a yarn with my Grandfather (the late Robert Roy). These were very exciting times for me! All discussions were on the table including: Clams, mussels, eels, eel pots, sheep / deer on Port Mouton Island, ducks, geese, trout, hunting seasons and equipment, Bud’s boats (McLeod Fisheries – Swordfish & Longliners) and so on…My attention was strictly undivided during these topics of discussion.
A few years ago, Russell took Carol and I out for a tour of Port Mouton harbour. Close – up views of harbour / grey seals, deer on Port Mouton Island, salmon fish farms in Port Mouton harbour (that was quite the “chit chat”) and a beautiful sun set. We had a great time!
We talked about many interesting things including the invasive green crab. Russell had a profound interest and knowledge of ecosystems, both land & sea in Nova Scotia.
Additionally, he was politically savvy and possessed a unique acumen / opine of Canadian governance and various provincial / federal institutions. Quite frankly, he was one hell of a smart guy and a pleasure to know!
A very generous soul. Rest in peace Skipper…
Bobby Kretschmer & Carol Lombardi
The Robertsons
Our community, and Robertson Lake in particular, will be a much less interesting place for sure without Russell. He was always out and about doing something and was so entertaining to talk to. We will miss hearing him calling his cat all the time and his colourful language. A very strong personality which leaves a big void. Thinking about all his family as they deal with the loss.
Robey Hatfield Jr.
Sincere condolences to the family.
Terri (Huskins) Longmire
So sorry to hear of Russell’s passing. I went to school with Lorna and Russell Jr and it is extremely sad to lose a parent. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.
charles&thelma schnare
rembering the good times
Cheryl Wagner Hatt
To Russell’s family…… So sorry to hear of his passing. Growing up in the same neighborhood I have many great memories of our childhood . Please accept my most sincere condolences.
Laurie Stephenson
I am so sorry to hear this news. It is hard for me to imagine Port Joli without him, but I know Russell is off to his next adventure. Love to the whole family. You have stories for generations.
Laurie Stephenson
Jay Stephenson
Be at peace,
“Under the wide and starry sky,
Dig the grave and let me lie.
Glad did I live and gladly die,
And I laid me down with a will.
This be the verse you grave for me:
Here he lies where he longed to be;
Home is the sailor, home from sea,
And the hunter home from the hill.”
R.L. Stevenson
Eric & Melinda Melanson
Our deepest sympathies to Lorna and the Nickerson family. Melinda and I were very saddened to hear of your loss.
Jeff Schnare
To the Family
Russell taught me so much about fishing, hunting, nature and life in general. Although he exceled at his passions, after a short while I learned that he respected and understood the habits and impacts of the animals, which allowed him be in the right place at the right time.
His lessons and respect for nature is something that I have strived to pass along to others and rest assured there have been many that have learned his lessons indirectly,.
As of late, I did not get the chance to make more memories with him, but stayed in touch via the phone and his pride in his family was evident in each of our conversations.
I have so many stories to share, but the words ” Twas the night before the season opened!” and how many start and will always be remembered and retold to my children, grandchildren and friends with a huge smile on my face.
Jeff Schnare
Pat Patterson
Sending condolences to all of Russell’s family.
Sincerely, Pat Patterson
Gregory Kenney
I was saddened I to hear of Russel’s passing. I hope your memories of him , in a small way, comfort you at this time. My condolences.
vinal smith
Sorry to hear of Russell’s passing. way back in grade eight we went to school together for a couple of years and it wouldn’t have been the same without having Russell there. He kept life interesting. We have been friends ever since and it was always good to meet up and see what he was up to.
Donna and Mike West
Lorna, Bentley and Sterling and families,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Thinking of you during this difficult time. Hugs.
Darlene
Russel truely lived by these words my father often quoted, “The clock of life is wound but once, but no one has the power, To tell just when the clock will stop, in late or early hour. Now is the only time we have, so live laugh, love with will. Have no faith in tomorrow, as the clock may then be still. Shelia, Lorna, Bub, Isaiah, Alex and Elijah: Each of you will miss Russel in your own way. May happy memories help you at this time.
Philip and Daisy
We are so sorry for your loss. Daisy was in the hospital that Friday night when Russel came in I spoke to him for a few minutes and told him goodnight when we left. Condolences to all the family..
Eleanor West (Newell)
To Russell’s Family …. I so sorry, I have just learned of Russell’s passing. I’ve had few hours lately to know what’s happening, my husband is in long term care I spent much time. I’m feeling upset about this. We grew up together in Port Mouton, he was one of a kind. He always had a way of p—— me off ! Then as kids we’d end up laughing ourselves silly.
Then there were times if I could have found something to bash in his head I sure would have !! That was all part of growing up years, in a small backward community, which I look back at and smile. After spending a few years in larger cities I am able to do that. R.I.P. Russell, will remember you. For his Family, please know my prayers and thoughts are with you all. Must tell you Russell, you always gave poor Mom a hard time, we had a good life, love you r.i.p.
Barbara Burns
Dear Harriet and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your great loss. Thinking of you and wishing you strength and comfort in the days ahead. Take care of each other.
Sincerely,
Barbara (Ronnie) Burns.
Beth
Lorna,
Thinking of you and yours at this sad time. If you are any reflection of your dad, he was a terrific person, indeed. Surround yourself with family and celebrate a life well lived.
Beth
Pam & Russell Acker
Condolences to the family, Russell was a great man and will be missed by all that knew him ; RIP Russell